Overview & Reviews
Since its launch in the mid-1990s, the Avalon has been Toyota's main full-size sedan. It has always been a solid performer, with standard V6 power, lots of interior space and a reputation for reliability.
Early Avalons were often criticized for their humdrum style, especially the first-generation model. But the more recent Avalons, thanks to their more upscale design, have consistently been among the best choices available for a large sedan. Overall, a new or used Avalon is certainly worth considering.
Current Toyota Avalon
Four trims comprise the Avalon lineup: XLE, XLE Premium, XLE Touring and Limited. For each, you'll find a smooth 3.5-liter V6 with 268 horsepower and a six-speed automatic transmission. Together, they provide strong performance along with impressive fuel economy.
Standard feature highlights of the XLE include leather upholstery, power and heated front seats, keyless ignition and entry, Bluetooth and an eight-speaker audio system. The XLE Premium adds a sunroof and a few other minor perks, while the Touring gains 18-inch wheels (versus 17s), a navigation system and a smartphone app integration system. The Limited's features include xenon headlights, upgraded leather upholstery, heated rear seats, ventilated front seats and an 11-speaker JBL premium sound system.
In reviews, we've been impressed by the Avalon's upscale cabin quality, roomy seating and large trunk. There's plenty of power on tap and the precise steering has a firm, responsive feel to it. Whether threading its way through a tight mountain pass or cruising serenely on the open freeway, this accommodating full-size sedan provides a very appealing blend of comfort and useful performance. The only possible downside is that the car's ride quality isn't quite as plush as before, which could alienate previous Avalon buyers. But overall, this Avalon's superior road manners will likely appeal to the vast majority of large sedan shoppers.
Used Toyota Avalon Models
Redesigned for 2013, the latest generation of the Toyota Avalon has a more premium look and feel than the previous one. Under the sleek new skin is a stiffer structure that improves both ride and handling qualities. Since its debut, this version has seen only a minor shuffling of standard and optional features.
Developed and built with American roads in mind, the previous, third-generation Toyota Avalon ran from 2005-'12. Initially, four trims were offered: XL, Touring, XLS and Limited. The Touring was unique in that it was a sporty Avalon, with 17-inch wheels, a more firmly tuned suspension, an all-black interior and aluminum trim. "Sporty" is a relative term, though, since even this Avalon was tuned more for comfort than zipping through corners. All Avalons had a 268-hp 3.5-liter V6 and it drove the front wheels through a six-speed automatic transmission.
Unlike earlier-generation Avalons, this one couldn't be had with a front bench seat. But there was ample room in the front and plenty of legroom to stretch out in back, where a nearly flat floor allowed three adults to sit comfortably. The materials were mostly first-rate and build quality was excellent overall.
Changes throughout this generation were minimal. The 3.5-liter V6 was initially rated for 280 hp, but revised SAE rating procedures dropped that to 268 hp, starting with the 2006 model year. Avalons from 2005-'07 had a five-speed automatic instead of the later six-speed, so expect slightly less performance and fuel economy from these earlier models. For 2009, stability control became standard across the board and the Touring trim was dropped. For 2011, Toyota updated the Avalon's exterior styling and dashboard design. The XLS trim level was also dropped, leaving the base Avalon and the Limited.
In road tests and reviews, we found the third-gen Avalon to be an excellent large sedan. Highway driving in particular is luxurious, making long road trips a pleasure. The V6 engine pulls smoothly and powerfully, while posting impressive fuel economy numbers. This Avalon handles adequately, but mainly this is a full-size car tuned for comfort rather than athleticism. Downsides are few – the rear seat doesn't fold down to expand luggage capacity and the driving demeanor is isolated and hence somewhat dull
With the second-generation Avalon, sold from 2000-'04, Toyota made a number of improvements over the first version. Available in XL and XLS trims, the second-gen Avalon was roomier and more technologically advanced. Optional stability control and brake assist features were added to improve safety. The 3.0-liter V6 was equipped with variable valve timing, providing a modest power increase over the previous generation with a peak of 210 hp. In road tests, we commented that the second-gen Avalon wasn't a particularly interesting car to drive, but it countered with plenty of dependability, comfort and smoothness. A curvaceous dashboard design further distinguished this model from its relatively staid competitors.
The original Toyota Avalon, sold from 1995-'99, came in two trims (XL and XLS) and had a 192-hp 3.0-liter V6 and a four-speed automatic transmission. Minor engine revisions for the 1997 model year saw the output of the V6 increase to 200 hp.
For the first two generations, Toyota did not make many significant changes. Therefore, used-Avalon shoppers should focus more on the condition and mileage of the vehicle than a specific year of production.
User Reviews:
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Loving my 4 door Avalon XLS Sedan!! - 2003 Toyota Avalon
By Jo Ann Kimber - May 17 - 10:00 amWe just bought our second Toyota Avalon XLS & really like it. Its got a beautiful interior with wood trim on console, & steering wheel has a rich look with both leather & wood. The bucket seats are comfortable (we chose leather) & seat a larger person with ease. It has excellent handling which makes it a fun car to drive. Our 2001 Toyota Avalon didnt get the mileage that Toyota suggested we would, but I think thats because I use my air- conditioner year round, daily. We also know that Toyota has an excellent resale value. Love my new Toyota Avalon!!
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Ponchittas Avalon - 2005 Toyota Avalon
By Ponchitta Bondojia - May 16 - 4:46 amThe Avalon XL is an outstanding automobile. Its velvety smooth ride and quick response is a sheer pleasure to experience.
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Best Car in US for the Price - 2005 Toyota Avalon
By dennis - May 10 - 2:40 pmThe 2005 Avalon XLS is awesome. It performs best at higher speeds, where it purrs like a cat and seems most at ease. The torque is amazing and can put you out in front of cocky kids in sports cars. You can challenge a Chrysler 300 on long stretches and leave almost all but the big BEAMERS disappearing in your rearview mirror. The only downside is getting used to the computerized shifting program which can seem bizarre and confused. Also the the brake pedal is mushy to the extent you feel you are losing fluid and the pedal is going to the floor... but in reality the pedal is reacting to various pressure intensities -- and it takes getting used to in order to feel confident.
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Excellent Sedan - 1999 Toyota Avalon
By Chris - May 6 - 5:16 pmThis sedan is excellent to drive and take passengers around in. The features are great and it is quite inside. Leather & Heat seats are nice features during the winter.
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Best Car ever in the last 12 years - 2006 Toyota Avalon
By robertverma - May 3 - 12:06 amThis car can easily beat many of the luxury cars in style, performance, comfort and features. I bought it used and will be driving it until many years to come. The only drawback I find is that it doesnt have iPod Jack which Im going to have installed. Every time I drive the car, I appreciate it even more then last time. Fuel economy is unbelievable, it gives me 30+ on the highways. Im a car lover and even though its not really a drivers car but Im willing to compensate only that part with everything else in the car. The rear seat room is like a limousine and it even reclines. I am never worried about the repair costs, its like driving a German car with no maintenance
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New Avalon is Outstanding! - 2006 Toyota Avalon
By Karen - May 1 - 10:46 amThe new Avalon is outstanding! Its our 2nd in a row, third Toyota & its over the top! It rides like butter on a hot roll. The new look is so elegant, new safety feature in brakes just adds to it being a car we have always felt extremely safe in. It is roomier inside, back seats recline, the dash is all push button, hidden controls & the new colors are beautiful with the leather seats. It has awesome acceleration & smoothest ride. Our last Avalon of 6 yrs was still like brand new, other than basic maintenance, oil changes, new battery & tires, we never had it in the shop. Toyotas are outstanding cars, & get great gas milage. Well always have an Avalon, we come from an all Toyota family.
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Great Car - 2005 Toyota Avalon
By Larry - April 30 - 9:20 pmIve had my Avalon Limited for two weeks and so far its the best car Ive ever had. Comfort, amenities and enough power to handle freeway driving. I like the overall look especially the cabin. It came with DVD NAV, VSC and Laser Link Cruise Control. I was pleasantly surprised at the way it handled on moutain roads. I guess the VSC paid off. I am still learning the NAV system and the Laser Link Cruise takes some getting used to, especially if someone cuts you off. A satellite radio was installed. The dealer used a third party to install it. The antenna is on the vehicle centerline half an inch above the rear window. Looks a lot better than it would have on the trunk lid.
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Avalon love - 2005 Toyota Avalon
By kathe - April 28 - 7:53 amThis is my 3rd Avalon & they just keep getting better & better--BUT, going with the nav system in the 05, lost my ability to have a trip "time" function which I miss--also not sure I like the automatic oor "unlock" when the ignition is off -- I felt a little safer when I had the ability to unlock manually when I stopped and turned off the ignition
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Pure Luxury - 2005 Toyota Avalon
By M. Hudoba - April 26 - 1:00 pmHad a 2000 Avalon and it was perfect. Waited for new style to come out and so glad I did. The interior is soooo plush and luxurious. Very similar to the Lexus but much cheaper. Have all the buttons including navigation system. Best feature is starting the car without the keys by using push button. Same for trunk. They really seemed to have put alot of thought into this car. Also impressed with Toyota following up with surveys on our satisfaction with the vehicle. This is how they can improve something--not that they need to. I have a 22 year old son that you would think this car would not appeal to him--but he talks about it all the time to his friends. A+ for Toyota Avalon.
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Great car - 2008 Toyota Avalon
By Tai - April 25 - 1:13 pmI just got this car last weekend. The XLS trim comes with practically everything I want. The only add-on option is the floor mats. Its interior is really spacious but I dont feel Im driving a big car. Very comfortable ride.
